German medical cannabis associations call for easier access
The German federal government has instructed the Joint Federal Committee (G-BA) to amend the drug directive regarding the approval requirement for medical cannabis. The aim is to define specific specialist groups and necessary qualifications, eliminating the approval requirement for certain medical professionals. In response, associations specialising in medical cannabis use have submitted statements to the G-BA.
The approval requirement challenge
Currently, the costs of medical cannabis for those covered by statutory health insurance are only reimbursed if prior approval is granted by the health insurance company (approval requirement). The established procedure for this is particularly discouraging, lengthy, and bureaucratic for both doctors and patients.
